[RL in Florida]

It looks like most of the High Performance Air Filters improve air flow by eliminating the Charcoal Stage of the filter, and using just the large particulate filter (paper/gauze/oil).

So, whats the charcoal there for? Remove hydrocarbons? Remove water?

I am looking at purchasing a high performance filter, but I'm just not wanted to take chances on causing engine damage if the charcoal actually is important.

Thanks for any input
Rick